Name: Porto Prelude: Cruising the Douro
Brand: Tauck

Tauck

Tauck is a super-premium river cruise line offering small, intimate sailings on the waterways of Europe.

The cruise line launched in 1992, offering luxurious and all-inclusive river cruises on the likes of the Danube, Rhine and Rhone.

With many awards under its belt, the cruise line owns it when it comes to European river cruising, heading away from crowded tourist hotspots and off the beaten track.

Cruise Itinerary

Days 1-3

Madrid

Day 4

Barca d’Alva

This riverside town is set within the Douro Natural Park and is a great pit stop for nature lovers. The scenery is filled with drama, including mysterious rock formations and soaring birds of prey. You’re also near Castelo Rodrigo – a medieval village known for its castle ruins and olive groves.

Day 5

Pinhão

This bucolic port town is a charming spot to explore quintas (wine estates) and tuck into local cuisine. But first, enjoy a ramble or cycle in the surrounding hillsides, with gentle routes through vineyards and citrus groves.

Day 6

Régua

This port town acts as an idyllic gateway to Portugal’s oldest wine-producing region. It’s the perfect place to learn about the area's viticulture in beautiful surroundings. Nearby, you’ll also find Casa de Mateus – this 18th-century baroque palace is known for its hedge-lined labyrinths and richly carved interiors.

Day 7

Entre-os-Rios

Days 8-9

Porto

Porto may be Portugal’s second city, but it takes first place in many cruisers’ hearts. It’s a gastronomic wonderland – with port and tonics, pastel de natas and excellent seafood. It's also full of architectural marvels, including the famous ironwork bridge joining the neighbourhoods of Gaia and Ribeira. You’ll find that both ocean liners and river cruise ships stop at its ports.

Days 10-12

Lisbon

In the annals of maritime lore, Lisbon stands as a testament to resilience, having weathered centuries of conquest and exploration. Its labyrinthine streets whisper tales of Moorish conquests and Age of Discovery triumphs, each cobblestone a silent witness to the city's rich past. Beneath the warm Mediterranean sun, Lisbon exudes an undeniable charm, drawing travelers seeking an authentic escape from the beaten path. From its vibrant neighborhoods to its serene waterfront, Lisbon offers a glimpse into Portugal's soul, where fado music reverberates through alfresco cafes, and the aroma of freshly baked pasts de nata fills the air, tempting even the most seasoned voyagers.

Days 1-3

Madrid

Day 4

Barca d’Alva

This riverside town is set within the Douro Natural Park and is a great pit stop for nature lovers. The scenery is filled with drama, including mysterious rock formations and soaring birds of prey. You’re also near Castelo Rodrigo – a medieval village known for its castle ruins and olive groves.

Day 5

Pinhão

This bucolic port town is a charming spot to explore quintas (wine estates) and tuck into local cuisine. But first, enjoy a ramble or cycle in the surrounding hillsides, with gentle routes through vineyards and citrus groves.

Day 6

Régua

This port town acts as an idyllic gateway to Portugal’s oldest wine-producing region. It’s the perfect place to learn about the area's viticulture in beautiful surroundings. Nearby, you’ll also find Casa de Mateus – this 18th-century baroque palace is known for its hedge-lined labyrinths and richly carved interiors.

Day 7

Entre-os-Rios

Days 8-9

Porto

Porto may be Portugal’s second city, but it takes first place in many cruisers’ hearts. It’s a gastronomic wonderland – with port and tonics, pastel de natas and excellent seafood. It's also full of architectural marvels, including the famous ironwork bridge joining the neighbourhoods of Gaia and Ribeira. You’ll find that both ocean liners and river cruise ships stop at its ports.

Days 10-12

Lisbon

In the annals of maritime lore, Lisbon stands as a testament to resilience, having weathered centuries of conquest and exploration. Its labyrinthine streets whisper tales of Moorish conquests and Age of Discovery triumphs, each cobblestone a silent witness to the city's rich past. Beneath the warm Mediterranean sun, Lisbon exudes an undeniable charm, drawing travelers seeking an authentic escape from the beaten path. From its vibrant neighborhoods to its serene waterfront, Lisbon offers a glimpse into Portugal's soul, where fado music reverberates through alfresco cafes, and the aroma of freshly baked pasts de nata fills the air, tempting even the most seasoned voyagers.

MS Andorinha

Custom-designed by our long-time partner Scylla to accommodate no more than 84 guests within an innovative deck plan featuring 12 300-sq. ft. Tauck Suites and 20 225-sq. ft. cabins, this brand-new 80-meter (263-foot) riverboat was specifically built for cruising amidst the historic quintas and picturesque villages along Portugal's golden Douro River.